The 2012 Impreza WRX STI features a 2.5-liter turbocharged F-4 under the hood that produces 305 hp. That power is routed through a six-speed manual transmission, then the STI’s Driver Controlled Center Differential, before finally hitting all four wheels. Lago first takes the WRX STI to the track where it performed well in our usual battery of tests that include 0-60 mph launches, quarter-mile drags, and our famous Figure Eight.

After the track, Lago gets to know the Impreza WRX STI better in the twisty mountain roads of Southern California. While driving, Lago argues that the Impreza WRX STI is one of the most honest cars out there; that it never tries to be anything that it’s not. He then says what he loves most about the STI is its sense of adventure. The STI is equally at home lugging band equipment around, as it is with skis and snowboards mounted on its roof.